Calls Landing have been tip-toeing around the suburbs of West Yorkshire for the past four years. In that time they have released 2 EP’s and 2 splits; a collection of angsty pop-punk ditties taking influence from 2010’s rebirth of American pop-punk, evoking The Wonder Years, Fireworks, Transit and Man Overboard. After a couple of line-up changes and a host of local shows under their belts the band have solidified their sound and unveiled their debut full length ‘Heirlooms’.
‘Clutch’ kicks things off, immediately interrupting with a much more polished sound than previous releases. The tightly crafted rhythm section explodes, dropping out just in time for vocalist Joe Armitage to introduce the first few lines. With the addition of a crucial, catchy chorus this is a pleasing opener to the album. Following is ‘Tightrope’, a song with hidden meaning. Joe’s lyrics to begin with speak of apologies, but further in it becomes apparent this song is about the struggle of dealing with anxiety. Holding their own in a scene where bands and fans struggle with anxiety every day, it’s nice to see Armitage address this and end with a reassuring message: ‘If you’re alright I’m alright’.
Single ‘Belgium’ is a high point of the record and the downbeat feel to this track suits its anxious tones down to a tee. Although it doesn’t possess the traditional, popular song structure the band exhibit on the rest of the album, guitarist Jordan Rio Hill plays a charming, melodic lead line that soars above the vocals effortlessly. ‘Sorry about the Weather’ is another track that strays from Calls Landing’s usual sound. Instead of compact, rhythmic pop-punk riffs, this track is strung out and dynamic. It really brings home the emotion in Joe’s voice as he sings about his family life.
Finishing off the album is ‘Ursa Minor’ and title track ‘Heirlooms (Ursa Major)’. The tracks are written as a pair and once again Armitage’s lyrics shine through and wrap up the record: “Here’s to the life we somehow lost in our hands”. Although predictable to have a slow building song to end with, there wasn’t really a better way the boys could have wrapped up forty minutes of soul baring emotional pop-rock in this instance.
It’s apparent when listening to ‘Heirlooms’ that the band have matured and put a lot of thought into their craft this time around. The highlight throughout is Armitage’s unconventional use of melody and lyrics. Reminiscent of Soupy from The Wonder Years every word is sincere and truthful. The lyrics tell stories and give a real sense that Calls Landing are a band made up of good friends, ‘Heirlooms’ being a small snapshot into their day to day lives and the things and people that matter most to them.
LUCINDA LIVINGSTONE